DC100 Defender Takes the Stage – 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show

The Land Rover Defender is "at the core of the brand," says Gerry McGovern, design director for Land Rover and Range Rover. "The reality is, we have to build a new one."

The rugged and durable Defender has been around for more than six decades, and the DC100 Concept hints at what the replacement might look like when it goes on sale in 2015 or early 2016.

"Land Rover should have a sense of fun," says McGovern. "It shouldn't take itself too seriously." Two versions of the DC100 will be on display during the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show, a blue hardtop (pictured) and yellow convertible. McGovern promises the next-gen Defender will be "as hard as nails," but redefined to meet modern standards of design, comfort and functionality.